2000 Audi A8 vs. 1988 Ford Thunderbird

To start off, 2000 Audi A8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Audi A8 (247 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (140 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Audi A8 weights approximately 24 kg more than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1988 Ford Thunderbird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1988 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2000 Audi A8 (330 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. (292 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2000 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Thunderbird. 1988 Ford Thunderbird has automatic transmission and 2000 Audi A8 has manual transmission. 2000 Audi A8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2000 Audi A8 1988 Ford Thunderbird
Make Audi Ford
Model A8 Thunderbird
Year Released 2000 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2494 cc 3797 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 247 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 3800 RPM
Torque 330 Nm 292 Nm
Torque RPM 1500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.3 mm 96.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 86.4 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 18.5:1 9.0:1
Top Speed 227 km/hour 185 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1630 kg 1606 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 5050 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1850 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2880 mm